
BYU Duck Pond
A serene campus oasis with ducks, turtles, and blossoming trees, perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds

BYU Duck Pond
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene campus oasis with ducks, turtles, and blossoming trees, perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.
"A great little treasure at the south end of campus! You would never guess you were on campus."

🚫 No Bread for Ducks!
Feed ducks peas, corn, or duck feed. Bread is harmful! :duck:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the trails comfortably. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blossoming Trees
Surrounding the pond
Vibrant trees burst into bloom, creating a picturesque backdrop for a peaceful stroll or quiet contemplation.

Duck & Turtle Encounters
The pond itself
Observe a variety of ducks and, if you're lucky, spot turtles basking in the sun. A delightful spot for nature lovers.

Tranquil Walking Trails
Around the pond and stream
Meander along brick paths beside a gentle stream, offering a serene escape from campus bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Respecting the Residents
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Bread for Ducks!
Feed ducks peas, corn, or duck feed. Bread is harmful! :duck:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the trails comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Perfect spot for nature photography, especially during spring blooms. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic Spots Available
Enjoy a meal outdoors with benches and tables. :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Bread for Ducks!
Feed ducks peas, corn, or duck feed. Bread is harmful! :duck:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the trails comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Perfect spot for nature photography, especially during spring blooms. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic Spots Available
Enjoy a meal outdoors with benches and tables. :picnic_table:
💩 Watch Your Step
Be aware of duck droppings on paths. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the BYU Duck Pond as a beautiful and calming spot, perfect for a peaceful walk or a study break. The scenic beauty, especially during spring with blooming trees, is a major draw. However, some find the pond smaller than expected, and caution is advised regarding duck droppings.
"Apparently the ducks here are so inbred they’ve become a completely new species😭 this place is great, calming if you need a break from studies. Watch out for duck poop."
Elizabeth Johnson
"What a beautiful place. Great to take a walk or just sit and relax. Enjoy the sound of the water falls, birds, or ducks in the pond."
Daniel
"This is a great little treasure at the south end of campus! The pond is small but it's full of ducks and turtles (if you feed them please do some research first and don't feed them bread! It's really bad for them). Its a great place to enjoy an afternoon outside. I love the trails around pond as well! They have a brick trail that runs alongside a stream. You would never guess you were on campus. There are several benches and picnic tables along the trail. If you're looking for a place to relax, be alone, or connect with nature on campus the duck pond and these trails are great!"
Jake Dodge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The BYU Duck Pond is located on the south end of the Brigham Young University campus in Provo, Utah. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. For those on campus, it's a pleasant walk or bike ride.
While there isn't direct public transport to the pond itself, UTA bus routes serve the BYU campus. You can check the UTA schedule for routes that stop near the south end of campus, followed by a short walk.
Yes, biking is a great option! The area has bike racks, making it convenient to cycle to the pond and enjoy the surrounding campus.
It's generally easy to find, situated on the south side of campus. Look for signs or ask for directions to the 'duck pond' or 'botany pond' area.
Parking is available in designated lots around the south end of campus. Check BYU's parking regulations for visitor parking availability and any associated fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the BYU Duck Pond is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. It's free to visit and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The duck pond is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official closing times, but it's best to visit when it's safe and well-lit.
There is no admission fee to enter the BYU Duck Pond area. It's a free community amenity for students and the public to enjoy.
Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There's no reservation system for them.
The main restriction is regarding feeding the ducks; avoid feeding them bread. Also, be mindful of campus rules and regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk, observe ducks and turtles, have a picnic, take photos of the scenery, and relax by the water. It's a great spot for a study break.
The park offers walkways, picnic tables, and bike racks. Restrooms might be available in nearby campus buildings, but are not directly at the pond.
Absolutely! The blossoming trees in spring and the serene water create beautiful photo opportunities. It's a popular spot for nature and landscape photography.
Dogs are generally allowed in outdoor campus areas, but must be kept on a leash. Be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
You'll primarily see various species of ducks. Turtles are also present, and you might spot other small birds.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Being on campus, there are several dining options within Brigham Young University's student union and nearby buildings. You can also find restaurants a short drive away in Provo.
Yes, the duck pond area has picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for an outdoor meal. Remember to bring your own food and dispose of trash properly.
It's best to feed the ducks peas, corn, or specialized duck feed. Avoid feeding them bread, as it's unhealthy for them and can cause digestive issues.
No, there are no food vendors or concessions directly at the duck pond. You'll need to bring your own food or purchase it from nearby campus dining facilities.
Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks are great picnic options. Don't forget drinks and any necessary utensils.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft lighting. Springtime with blooming trees is particularly photogenic.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing ducks up close. Even a smartphone can capture lovely shots.
The areas with the blossoming trees, the stream banks, and the pond itself with ducks are prime spots. Look for reflections in the water.
Maintain a respectful distance. While ducks are accustomed to people, getting too close can disturb them. Use a zoom lens to capture details.
Capturing the vibrant colors of the spring blossoms, the serene water reflections, and the wildlife (ducks and turtles) are the main draws for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place to teach children about nature and wildlife in a calm, accessible environment. The relatively small size of the pond makes it manageable for a short visit, ensuring kids stay engaged without getting overwhelmed. The surrounding greenery also provides a pleasant space for a family stroll.
📚 Students Seeking a Study Break
Bring a book and find a quiet bench, enjoy a peaceful walk along the stream, or simply sit and observe the ducks. It’s a fantastic spot to recharge before diving back into your studies. The accessibility and serene environment make it a go-to location for students looking for a moment of calm amidst a busy university schedule.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ecosystem of the BYU Duck Pond
Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the pond's inhabitants. While feeding the ducks is a common activity, it's crucial to do so responsibly. Avoid feeding them bread, as it can lead to serious health issues and malnourishment. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like peas, corn, or specialized duck feed. This simple act helps maintain the health of the duck population and the overall pond environment.
The pond's trails offer a chance to connect with nature, with brick paths winding alongside a stream. This creates a serene atmosphere, making it easy to forget you're on a bustling university campus. It's a testament to how green spaces can be integrated into urban and academic settings, providing a much-needed sanctuary for both wildlife and people.
A Photographer's Paradise
Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the 'golden hours,' provide the most flattering light for photography. The soft, warm glow enhances the natural beauty of the scene and minimizes harsh shadows. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, the pond offers ample opportunities to capture memorable images. Consider bringing a telephoto lens if you want to get close-up shots of the ducks without disturbing them.
Beyond the seasonal blooms, the pond itself, with its ducks and occasional turtles, provides dynamic subjects. The reflections on the water's surface can add an artistic element to your photos. It’s a place where you can practice landscape, wildlife, and even portrait photography with a beautiful natural setting.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit